The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ALTRUISM
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
A
L
T
R
U
I
S
M
More clues leading to the result ALTRUISM
- Muralist's unusual concern for others
- Selflessness that’s really at heart platitude
- Philanthropy is a liberal axiom
- Being kind of aluminium bromide
- Gates may display this, a Latin platitude
- Liar must reform to show generosity to others
- A statement of the obvious about Left’s consideration for others
- ‘Self-sacrifice’ commonplace under Capone, say …
- Good for nothing?
- Benevolence the French reject — that’s commonplace
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Selflessness" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case selflessness = altruism.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ALTRUISM mean?
ALTRUISM noun- Regard for others, both natural and moral without regard for oneself; devotion to the interests of others; brotherly kindness.
- (sociobiology) Action or behaviour that benefits another or others at some cost to the performer.